The attorneys in our Probate and Estate Planning Section understand that end-of-life issues are sensitive and personal subjects. To learn about our clients' individualized situations, we work together with them to evaluate a comprehensive variety of estate planning concerns, such as:

• Who will make my health care and financial decisions for me if I am unable?
• Should I be worried about estate and gift taxes?
• What can I do for my favorite charities?
• Who do I want to care for my minor children if I die?
• How can I successfully transfer the family business or farm?
• What is a trust and do I need one?
• Will the nursing home take all of my property away?
• How can I provide for a child with special needs?
• What can I do to foster a smooth transition after I am gone?
• How do I address stepchildren?
• What would happen to my pets if something happened to me?

Working with clients' accountants and financial advisors, we guide clients in identifying their personal estate planning goals. We then efficiently prepare all of the necessary documents to make sure those goals are met. Documents we often draft include:

• Wills

• Section Chair: Jack A. Postlewaite David J. Adler Donald R. Marjala G. Scott Nicastro William J. Spangler William H. Thedinga Paul H. Weinke

  Health Care Powers of Attorney
• HIPAA Authorizations
• Marital Property Agreements
• Durable Financial Powers of Attorney
• Children's/Grandchildren's Trusts
• Business Succession Plans
• Revocable (Living) Trusts
• Disclaimer Trusts
• Irrevocable Trusts
• Special Needs Trusts
• Pet Trusts
• Charitable Trusts
• Gift Plans and Schedules

When the need arises, our attorneys are also available to assist clients with estate administrations, guardianships, protective placements, and adoptions. Whether clients need to tie up only a few loose ends or need more sophisticated probate representation, clients trust our attorneys to help post-death transitions and planning proceed as easily and as quickly as possible.